It’s time to take care of your needs. For so long, you’ve been putting everyone ahead of you. However, because your substance abuse is spiraling out of control, you have little choice now. What is the difference between an outpatient and an inpatient rehab program, and is there another option?
Why Choose Rehab in the First Place?
Substance abuse has a strong psychological component. It’s not something that you can overcome on your own. Many people have tried to deal with addiction on their own, only to fall back into substance abuse almost immediately. At a rehab facility, you don’t have the same triggers you deal with at home.
Most importantly, you work with professionals who understand what you’re going through. That’s why they can help you through the worst of the addiction. However, you do have options when it comes to treatment delivery.
What is the Difference between Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab?
Inpatient rehab means that you’ll live at the facility for the duration of the program. It’s an excellent option if you’re in an unsafe living situation. Moreover, it takes you out of an environment that might be permissive toward substance abuse. By living at the facility, you have around-the-clock access to therapists.
Women’s addiction treatment programs that offer outpatient care typically allow for a part-time approach to recovery. You don’t live at the center. Similarly, you don’t have around-the-clock access to assistance. In the inpatient vs outpatient rehab debate, most therapists consider the latter to be a step-down option.
This means that you already underwent inpatient care and graduated from the program. Rather than quitting all treatment immediately, you gradually decrease its intensity. Doing so makes sense when you consider that you’re still trying to figure out your life. The part-time approach gives you the help you need with triggers you might not have anticipated.
In the inpatient vs outpatient rehab discussion, there’s a third option: a women’s partial hospitalization program. You don’t live at the rehab facility, but you undergo full-time treatment. You might live at home or in a sober living home. It’s a good in-between step that also works well for women who are gradually stepping down care.
Evidence-Based Treatment is at the Heart of Good-Quality Rehab
What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient rehab? It’s the delivery of treatment. However, the quality is the same. Evidence-based modalities make up the care options for inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization clients.
Examples of care approaches include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which focuses on changes to your coping skills
- 12 Step program participation for group accountability
- Exercise therapy program as a tool for embracing a healthy lifestyle
- Group therapy program, which helps with boundary-setting
- Life skills training through daily activities
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
Choosing between inpatient and outpatient rehab is a pivotal decision on your path to recovery. At Soledad House, we understand the unique challenges women face in overcoming addiction. Our San Diego-based facility offers a comprehensive, women-only treatment environment designed to foster healing, empowerment, and lasting sobriety.
Whether you require the immersive support of our inpatient program or the flexibility of outpatient care, our tailored treatment plans—including Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and Sober Living options—are structured to meet you where you are in your recovery journey. We integrate evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR, alongside holistic practices such as yoga, meditation, and exercise therapy, to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Our compassionate, experienced team is committed to providing a safe, supportive space where women can rebuild their lives. From initial treatment through extended care and aftercare programs, we stand by you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one is ready to embrace a new chapter of recovery, reach out to Soledad House today. Your journey to healing starts here.
